Somerset Council Innovates with Family-Style Children's Homes

Somerset Council has created family-style homes for children in care to save money and provide local support. In partnership with charity Homes2Inspire, they plan to open 10 homes, saving £2 million in the first year. Despite these efforts, the council still faces future financial challenges.

Somerset Council, facing financial challenges, has adopted a new strategy by purchasing properties to create family-style homes for children in care.

Managed by Kelly Field and in partnership with Homes2Inspire, part of the Shaw Trust charity, this initiative aims to provide a more normalized living environment for the kids.

Currently, three teenagers reside in a home supported by staff around the clock.

The council plans to open a total of 10 homes, with seven expected to be operational by September.

This initiative marks a shift from reliance on private providers, which often involves placing children far from their local areas.

With an investment of £3 million and a £2.9 million grant from the Department for Education, Somerset Council reports saving £2 million in the first year alone.

Financial strategies also included handing over local services to town councils and raising council taxes.

Despite these measures, future financial stability remains a concern, prompting Somerset Council to continue its efforts to reduce costs and reorganize its services.